Ralph "Pooch" VanWagner

Ralph "Pooch" VanWagner, 69, of Rhinebeck, NY, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 26, 2025 in Rhinebeck.

Born on April 19, 1956, son of Ralph Dewitt VanWagner and Majorie Fallon. Ralph enlisted in the United States Navy in 1973 and proudly served on the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt until 1979.

After serving his country, he traveled the United States and settled for a short time in Louisiana and Texas where he made many close friends. Upon returning to the Hudson Valley, Ralph pursued his passion for carpentry and worked many years as an independent carpenter. After years in carpentry, Ralph began a long career utilizing his CDL and Hazardous Material Vehicle license working for Bottini and eventually retiring with Gasland.


Ralph was a man of many passions. He loved the freedom of the open road on his Harley, and had a special place in his heart for senior rescue dogs, adopting older dogs in their later years that no one else would take. He was an active member of the Elks and cherished the many friendships he built throughout his life.

Above all, Ralph was an encouraging and positive father who raised his sons with love and support. His great sense of humor and warm spirit touched everyone who knew him, and he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and compassion.

Ralph is survived by his four sons: Ryan, Richard, Chris, and Corey VanWagner; his sister, Terri Carl, his brother, Scott Simmons, and many relatives along with many dear friends who will miss him deeply.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, November 2nd from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Dapson Chestney Funeral Home in Rhinebeck, NY. Military Honors will begin at 2:45 PM. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the local ASPCA in Ralph's memory, honoring his love for rescue animals.

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